“Call me Johnny.”
She would have stopped him eventually. Wouldn’t she have? She huffed, not sure who she was more annoyed with, herself or him. “Johnny— you sure have your nerve.”
He threw his head back and laughed. “Yeah, I do. I ain’t always a patient fella, or always smart, but I do know when something’s right.”
Her heart fluttered in her chest. So he had felt something too.
“Anything worth having is worth waitin’ for.”
“Oh, is it?”
“Yep, but timing is everything.” He admitted he was a cautious man. That few truly knew him and his friendships had been acquired through shared experience, childhoods forged in steel, loyalty and trust. Loyalty was important to him—everything. “Back home we all got nicknames, mine is Cobra.”
“Like a snake?”
“Yep, because I take time to think things out and when I strike, it’s effective.” Pulling out a fancy timepiece, he glanced at it. “We should get going. The rain’s letting up.”
They crossed the street and started walking. Hannah asked him about New York. He told her about Brooklyn where he grew up. How his parents, now dead, originally came to America from Italy. His older sister was a nun.
“Funny, it was a big dream of mine to go to New York.”
“Yeah? You don’t strike me as the big city type.”
“What do you mean by that,” she asked, once again feeling defensive.
“Ya seem sweet and innocent underneath all that flapper sass. And, I detect a bit of a southern accent. It’s kinda cute. I like it, Kansas.”
“Thanks, New York.” She beamed like a searchlight.
Johnny laughed, catching her hand. “Maybe I’ll take ya there someday and make your dreams come true.”
“Oh, I don’t know if that’s even possible,” she remarked coyly, but her heart fluttered against her ribs. The man could certainly throw her off balance.
“Oh yeah, why’s that?”
She could feel his gaze all the way down to her sopping wet feet. “I’ve got lots of dreams and they’re pretty big.” She told him she’d run off to Kansas City with nothing more than hopes and dreams. “And a sense there’s more to life than just hard work.” She told him she loved singing and being admired. “I want to experience everything pleasurable life has to offer and that includes being able to afford lots of pretty things. I always liked the idea of being as free as a bird with nothing or no one to cage me.”
He stopped to pull her into a quick embrace. He told her he was demanding, a perfectionist and a loner but he also liked to travel and acquire pretty things. He said he collected rare antiques, objects, swords, art and opportunities.
Unable to help himself, Johnny caught her around the back of her neck. He yanked her to him, kissing her soundly. He rolled his tongue over her lips and teased the inside of her mouth with several quick strokes. The hell with thinkin’.
He forced himself to let her go. “Now, where were we…oh yeah, you were tellin’ me why I couldn’t be the fella to make your dreams come true. So, what kinds of pretty things do you want?”
She laughed, regaining a smidgeon of her strewn wits and ticked some of her wants off on her fingers. “Clothes, shoes, hats, jewelry and accounts in all the best stores of course. And a perfectly cozy apartment in a nice neighborhood with real art on the walls with fancy gold frames with all the curlicues.”
He laughed. “That all?”
She shook her head, joyously letting her mind fly. She told him she wanted to travel, go to lots of parties and stay in fancy hotels. “I want silk sheets on the bed and mints on my pillow and flowers, lots of them.” She paused aware of his amused expression. “And the money I make singing won’t even matter because I’d have oodles of jack.”
“Why work if ya have oodles of jack?”
She shrugged not at all sure, but unable to imagine not wanting to sing anymore.
“Maybe I’ll marry you someday and give ya all that and more,” said Johnny so impulsively he shocked himself.
Hannah laughed, sensing his surprise. “I should scare you silly and accept. You know you’re safe because I told you I’m not ever getting married.” She swatted him playfully. “You’re incorrigible, New York. Serious one minute, quiet, hard to read, then spontaneous and quite blunt. I suspect you enjoy keeping people on their toes.”
He chuckled, giving her a considering look. “Okay, so I ain’t the marrying kind either, but ya gotta admit we could have fun living the high life together.”
She feigned distaste by wrinkling her nose. “Probably, but you strike me as the kind of fella likes to be boss and I’m the kind of girl who doesn’t like to follow rules.”
“Hey, I’m a man and you’re a dame. I’m supposed to be boss.”
She rolled her eyes dramatically. “And, we’d probably kill each other in a week.”
Her remarks surprised him if the flicker in his eye was any indication. She laughed, feeling better, secretly pleased to have set him down some. Maybe now he’d forget how she’d melted at his touch.
They reached the small hotel in companionable silence. Johnny went to use the telephone. She went to the ladies room to try to repair the damage the rain had done, but it was hopeless. Waiting for him in the lobby she thought about all that had transpired with Johnny Gallo tonight. She couldn’t even begin to gather her wits and figure it out. All she knew was that he made her heart speed up every time she saw him.
She sighed when she saw him, barely stifling a yawn. “Here, your coat.” She held it out.
“Keep it. You look cold, rung through the wringer but still gorgeous. How about something warm to drink in the restaurant next door, and I call you a taxi. I’ve done everything that I can tonight, but you’ll be back singing at Tony’s day after tomorrow for sure.”
She nodded, admittedly exhausted but thrilled he’d called her gorgeous, considering. “Thanks for coming to my rescue again. You’re a sweetie, Johnny Gallo.”
“Hey, don’t ever make the mistake of thinkin’ I’m sweet, doll,” he warned as they sat down together. He barked their order to the waitress. She brought Irish coffee for him, a pot of tea with lemon and honey for her. Johnny ordered her to drink up. “Tea is good for preventing colds. Wet as you are, don’t want you catchin’ a chill. Drink up like a good little girl and I’ll send you home.”
Warmed by his obvious concern she didn’t even bristle at his take charge manner, or his telling her to be a good little girl. Welcoming the soothing balm of the hot tea, she sipped it slowly. “I suspect that underneath that bossy tough guy exterior, you possess the heart of a marshmallow.”
He shook his head vehemently, skimmed his thumb over the back of her hand. “Soft I ain’t, doll. I just look out for the people and things I care about, that’s all.”
She smiled. “Careful, Johnny Gallo, a gal might think you’re sayin’ you have a certain fondness for her.”
“A certain gal just might be right.” His eyes were steady, intense. “So what was Seymour to ya?”
She felt her cheeks heat up. “A good friend.”
“How good of a friend?”
“Seymour was a nice man. I miss him.” Her chin was up and so was her ire. How dare he ask such a personal question?
“He was awful old to be a friend of yours.”
She stiffened. Was he judging her? “That’s not your business.”
He leaned forward, his eyes spitting fire. “I intend to make you my business and I don’t like thinking of you pandering to some old coot just to pay the rent. That ain’t the way things should be.”
Her voice shook from both embarrassment and anger at his presumption even though it contained truth. “You are far too blunt, Mr. Gallo. Life isn’t always what it should be. I am alone in this world with nothing except what the good Lord saw fit to give me to use to survive. I will make no apologies for how I’ve done that. I think I’ve done well so far, considering things could always be wors
e.”
Icy blue chips met narrowed black orbs as they stared one another down.
“I told ya, I look out for my own and I’m possessive. Maybe that’s not a good thing and maybe I don’t have a right to say that right now, but I’m warning you.”
The thought that he might care thrilled her. And scared her. She sipped her tea. Being with a man like him would be like jumping into a deep, dark pool with unknown depths. A girl could sink or swim, but for sure it’d be quite an exhilarating adventure. Hannah fanned herself finding the room too warm all of a sudden.
“I think you’re gorgeous and who wouldn’t. You’re special, sweet, a treasure. A fella would be lucky to own you.”
Hannah’s heart did a flip. “Thanks, but no fella will ever own me.”
“Oh yeah?” Johnny’s hand was on top of hers. His touch sent shivers up her spine.
She pulled her hand away. “Yeah and if I’ve learned one thing about men, it’s that flattery usually means they want something.”
“So, in your educated opinion, what is it they usually want?” He leaned back looking amused.
“Sex, the beast with two backs, nookie.” She grinned.
Head back, Johnny laughed heartily. He lit a camel for himself, and seeing her expression reluctantly lit one for her too. Maybe the stubborn mule had some potential for growth after all.
He handed her a cigarette. “I don’t remember when I’ve ever laughed as much as I have this evening. You’re an original, you really are an angel.”
“No angel, but thanks all the same.” She inhaled; cocky as hell and happier then she’d been in ages.
“And I don’t need to bullshit to get any woman in the sack.” He took a long drag on his cigarette. “Let’s not forget who turned who away tonight.”
Hannah colored profusely. He’d scattered her wits with one kiss and knew it. Gallo wasn’t some randy schoolboy or grateful old man she could hold off with a teasing quip, quick peck, or a flash of gam. She’d have to watch herself or risk forgetting the hard lessons she’d learned about men. She picked at the checkered tablecloth.
Johnny’s voice was cool as he paid the check. He’d called her a taxi and stood with her waiting. “I ain’t sweet, soft, or a gentleman unless it suits me. Actually I’m a ruthless son-of-a-bitch so be doubly warned. I want what I want and I usually get what I want, whatever it takes.”
Whatever it takes. His words frightened and exhilarated her. It was as if he were saying he would have her no matter what. She’d never felt so tempted since Ray, but sensed the danger. Johnny Gallo was admittedly controlling, ruthless and possessive. But, could she handle it—him? It could be an intoxicating journey into passions yet explored, but there was a risk, a big one. She could easily lose everything she’d gained, her hard won confidence and her very independence. Still, desire swirled dark and dangerous around them every time their eyes met. He was the antithesis to the control she’d had with every other man she’d known so far and if she gave in, which a large part of her was tempted to do, she feared she’d be consumed.
“Taxi’s here, sir.”
He became an exciting male animal, all predatory power as he ordered the driver to wait. He insisted on paying him. He helped her put his coat around her shoulders then yanked her around to face him. He lowered his head to hers where he proceeded to kiss her silly. Fast, efficient, mind numbing kisses.
“I won’t be around for awhile. I gotta leave for Chicago on business so stay outta trouble, okay?” He kissed her once more, no hesitation this time.
“I’ll try.” She felt weak-kneed and wished her voice didn’t sound so breathless. “How long are you going for?”
“About a month.” He chucked her under the chin. “Maybe you’ll miss me?”
Pausing long enough to tease him, she said, “Maybe.”
He smiled. “I’ll bring you a souvenir.”
“I love diamonds.” Again, she could not seem to staunch the impulse to provoke him.
His eyes never left her face as shaking his head, he closed the door.
Rolling down the window, she waved and threw him a kiss. The night had been long, eventful and full of surprises. The future suddenly looked promising. “You hurry home, handsome. If you’re lucky, I’ll be waiting.”
He grinned, tilting his hat as the cab pulled away. “I’m countin’ on it, doll.”
10 CHAPTER TEN
The telephone rang and Meg hurried to pick it up.
“You’ll never believe this,” said Hannah, her voice a mere whisper. “Rosie was missing and didn’t come home last night and then she just called to say she’s eloped.”
Meg let out a whoop. “Rosie married? Today is a day for surprises all right. Of all the people in the world that we know, I’d never really expected Rosie to be the one to go all middle aisle, but then again, she does like to shock people.”
“And, I admit it, I am shocked,” said Hannah giggling as she told Meg about the impromptu party she wanted to throw for her soon-to-be former roommate. “Want to help?”
“Of course. I wouldn’t miss it, kiddo, see you soon,” said Meg. She hung up the phone thoughtfully and called herself a taxi. It’d be good to see her friends, especially Hannah. Anything to get her mind off her own sorry problem. Meg hurried to get dressed.
Rosie yawned, eyes dancing with merriment as the party celebrating hers and Mike’s elopement ended. “Thanks, that was swell, Han. Tony and his wife Irlene were the cat’s meow sendin’ food and champagne around and you dedicatin’ those songs to us made it so special.”
“Yeah, tops. Nice joint too. Thanks.” Mike said, tugging Rosie’s hair affectionately as he slipped his arm around his bride urging her towards the car.
“I’m just glad we could pull it together so fast,” said Hannah beaming as Mike pulled Rosie close for yet another passionate kiss. He couldn’t keep his hands off of her. And, when he looked at her…well, his love and adoration were obvious. On the other hand, her handsome rumrunner was gone a week now. A month was a long time to wait for something that might never develop. She wondered if she would ever find a love like Rosie had. “Just think, it’s official. You’re now Mr. and Mrs. Murillo.”
Rosie pulled away and grimaced. “Ugh, that name makes me sound like Mikey’s mother. That’ll take some gettin’ used to.”
Meg caught up to them and said, “Hey, you two are probably dyin’ to start that honeymoon right off. Why don’t you go, Hannah and I can split a cab.”
“We already anticipated the honeymoon.” Rosie giggled, giddy from a long night of alcoholic toasts as she insisted on Mike driving them home.
Turning to smile at Hannah and Meg situated in the back seat of Mike’s Ford, Rosie told Meg she was glad to see she’d put some meat back on her bones. “I worried you were wasting away.”
“Oh poo, I am fine,” said Meg waving away any concern.
The car backfired and stalled once before coasting down the hilly street. The exuberant groom honked the horn until his new wife made him stop.
“Someone’s happy,” remarked Hannah congratulating them again even as she admitted that she would regret losing Rosie as a roommate. “It will take some getting used to. I’ll have to find another roomy soon or move to a smaller place.”
“Don’t worry, Han. I’ll be staying with Mike but I will pay my share of the rent until you can replace me.”
Hannah was grateful and thanked her.
“No worries,” said Rosie, turning to peck Mike’s cheek and staring at him as if she couldn’t believe he was quite real.
Meg grabbed a cigarette from her purse and said, “Han, how ’bout we head over to Petticoat Lane tomorrow? We can hit Emery’s, Rothschild’s, then the Egyptian tea room for a bite. My treat.”
Hannah smiled and yawned. “Sounds like a plan to me, kiddo.”
Pulling up to Meg’s building, they watched as Meg’s slim figure disappeared behind the glass doors enclosing her posh digs. Unlike Meg who preferred to liv
e alone, Hannah was dreading it but if anything started up between her and Gallo….
Ever since desire had sparked between her and Johnny Gallo, she’d been entertaining some deliciously sinful thoughts, shocking herself with the extent of her musings. Surely it was just lust? After all, other than childish flirtations with Ray and Robert, she’d never actually had a normal love life or a willing intimate relationship with someone she actually desired.
Rosie sheepishly confessed to Hannah she’d told Mike about Johnny, jolting Hannah out of her own head.
“I hope you aren’t mad, Han? We tell each other everything now. Mike wouldn’t say nothin’ to anyone.”
“No,” sighed Hannah, thankful she hadn’t mentioned the underground tunnels.
“Do you know how connected he is?” Mike said, obviously impressed.
Hannah gave Rosie a withering look. “We spent an hour together. It was really nothing.”
Mike snorted. “Let me put you wise here, hon. Gallo ain’t some ordinary fella goes around bein’ nice. Word is he’s dizzy for ya already.”
Hannah blinked, not at all sure she’d heard Mike right. “Where did you hear that?”
Mike shrugged. “Don’t forget little Italy is my home and from what Tony says, Gallo’s got a vested interest in seein’ you stay happy.”
“Tony said that?” Hannah was discomfited. She’d hardly spent enough time with Johnny for people to assume he had any influence regarding her at all. But, if he’d said something to Tony, it implied things she wasn’t quite ready to acknowledge. She didn’t know if she should be flattered or furious.
Grinning unabashedly, Rosie reached to give Hannah a sisterly pat. “I say good for you. Seize the day and all that jazz.”
Hannah shook her head. She had struggled hard to gain some measure of independence and wasn’t willing to allow Gallo’s interest in her to insinuate any sort of possession.
They pulled up to her place. She hugged them both before getting out of the car. At Rosie’s insistence, Mike walked her up the stairs leading to the apartments. The bushes rustled and it suddenly felt like the night had eyes she couldn’t see. It was an unusually eerie feeling.
The Songbird with Sapphire Eyes Page 12
